Trollers are easily identified by the long poles and hydraulic “gurdies” they use while fishing for salmon. Lines fitted with leaders and lures are paid out and trolled behind the vessel. Gurdies retrieve lines from the water, and each hooked fish is removed and handled individually.
Area F fishing grounds
The area in orange is where Area F trollers have access to catch salmon. Within this area Rockfish conservation and Marine Park zones exist which no fishing can take place. In addition, depending on the species of salmon being targeted specific areas can be open or closed during the season.
Validating fresh salmon at designated offload site
Each salmon fresh or frozen that is offloaded from an Area F troller is validated by a third-party organization and a percentage of the catch is then DNA analyzed for up to date catch reports that DFO can use for management measures during the season and post season.
Grading frozen at sea (FAS) salmon
Each salmon that is offloaded is graded by species, weight and quality.